Living the life of a functioning addict is no easy task. Managing the compulsions associated with your addiction, while also maintaining gainful employment and accomplishing social obligations is akin to juggling multiple flaming swords: It’s impossible to sustain.
Making the decision to enter a rehabilitation program to address your substance use disorder is not only a commendable resolution, but it is also the first step toward a healthier, happier you. Opting to engage in an outpatient treatment program provides unique opportunities to receive comprehensive, therapeutic interventions, while also remaining in the community.
Going to Rehab While Working and Caring for a Family Can Be Done
Learning to balance the expectations of outpatient therapy with your existing daily routine can be successfully achieved if the proper preparations are made beforehand and your personal motivation to attain and sustain sobriety is at the forefront of your personal goals.
Review three key techniques to attaining homeostasis within your personal life throughout outpatient treatment and methods for balancing the expectations of both therapeutic anticipations and personal obligations.
3 Techniques for Balancing Outpatient Treatment and Career Obligations
1. Set Proper Goals
Initiating the process of outpatient treatment with realistic expectations and personal goals can set the tone for your entire treatment experience. Understanding why you are going to therapy in the first place enables you to prioritize your goals and identify which obligations are necessities and which are expendable.
These goals will also serve as a constant reminder of why you are participating in the therapeutic process, guiding you through tough days and the inevitable temptation to relapse.
2. Find an Outpatient Program that Best Suits Your Needs
Everyone experiencing the process of addiction is a unique individual, and their needs throughout the journey to achieve sobriety are unique, as well. Taking the time to find an outpatient program that accommodates your distinctive personality and addresses your personal addictive patterns will ensure that you get the most out of the rehabilitative process.
The right outpatient facility for you will also aid in maintaining your daily obligations, working around work schedules and family responsibilities whenever possible.
3. Establish a Strong Social Support Network
Rehab treatment of any kind is a difficult task to undertake. Establishing a social support network that can hold you accountable to your personal goals, while also providing personal support and emotional encouragement is an intricate part of your ability to sustain sobriety.
Learning to communicate openly with your social support network will keep them informed as to what you are trying to accomplish and how they can best provide support. This type of open and honest communication will benefit you greatly throughout the therapeutic process and aid in maintaining your sober behaviors long after completing outpatient treatment.
How to Go to Rehab and Keep Your Job
It is important to know that your job is protected by law.
Addiction is a diagnosable disease that millions of Americans grapple with on a daily basis. Finding the courage to initiate your journey into rehabilitation is an amazing accomplishment, and one that is fully protected by law.
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) identify drug addiction as a disability and ensure that you will not be discriminated against due to your battle with the disease. However, it is important to note that if you are actively using drugs, you are not protected by the ADA or FMLA.
Holistic Outpatient Addiction Treatment at Ranch Creek Recovery
Taking the first steps in your recovery journey can be exhilarating and terrifying all at the same time. No matter which emotion you are experiencing, you are not alone throughout the process.
At Ranch Creek Recovery, we believe that finding motivation within yourself to overcome your addiction and strive toward sobriety is both commendable and admirable. But taking the time to plan properly, establish appropriate personal goals and create a sober and supportive social network can mean the difference between just starting the therapeutic journey and completing the expedition to sustained substance abstinence.
We make it our mission to meet you exactly where you are in life and walk with you every step of the way throughout your recovery journey.
Learn more about Ranch Creek Recovery, including our in-person and virtual outpatient treatment program.
Have questions? We’re here to help in any way we can. Contact us today.
